[quote=@Ollumhammersong]
well in sticking with the classical theme/era soldiery i'm struggling to think of an idea that isn't just 'group of dudes with spears, supported by smaller group of dudes with light armour and shorter spears.' not exactly lighting up the imagination. 
[/quote]

What about unique cavalry like the Companion Cavalry of Alexander, or perhaps falxmen? Slingers are also good as the Balearic slingers demonstrate in battles alongside the Carthaginians and Romans. You can even try going backwards in technology and go for warclubs and the like. If it proves too dry, I still allow going a little upwards in-terms of tech given good reason.